Cognac for Cocktails

The genteel spirit is not just for sipping anymore.

By Kathleen McKenna

In years past, the French brandy Cognac probably conjured images of tweed-clad gentlemen swirling swifters in a sea of cigar smoke. And today, an affection for the liquor is still a requisite for a certain, distinguished breed of individual. But it’s no secret Cognac today has acquired a younger, more diverse following (fans include hip-hop artists like Busta Rhymes and Chris bridges, i.e. Ludacris, who recently released his own Conjure brand). Another example today’s Cognac differs from that of yesteryear: the proliferation of Cognac-based cocktails, served in Rocks and martini glasses rather than swifters.

In recent months producers have been paying more careful attention to the Cognac cocktail. Mixologists from around the world recently met at the third annual International Cognac Summit (in Cognac). The goal? To refresh classic Cognac concoctins like the Sidecar and Sazerac and give them a more contemporary twist (Recipes for two of the more impressive results—as determined by summit attendee and Wine Enthusiast contributor Janice Fuhrman— as well as a recipe for the Summit, another cognac cocktail created at the conference three years ago, are provided below). And in 2009, well-known, prestigious Cognac house Courvoisier released a younger line called Exclusif retailing for about $50. Made from a blend of six to 12-yeard old Cognacs, Exclusif is designed specifically for mixing—recipes provided by Courvoisier are listed below—though is suitable for sipping as well. A bottle perhaps representative of the variety of Cognac lovers today.

Place the lime peel and ginger slices in an old-fashioned glass. Add 3/4 ounce of the cognac and gently muddle. Fill the glass halfway full with ice cubes; stir well for 5 seconds. Add the remaining 3/4 ounce of cognac and the lemonade. Rub the rim of the glass with the underside of the cucumber peel, then drop the peel into the drink. Stir for 5 seconds, then serve.